- Posted: 18/02/2026
- Closing Date: 04/03/2026
- Job Type: Permanent – Full Time
- Location: Whangārei
- Job Category: Regulation Compliance and Consents
Northland Regional Council’s role is to care for and protect Te Taitokerau Northland’s environment and communities. Does that resonate with you?
Ko te aha ā mātou mahi? / What work do we do?
We’re focused on creating a healthy environment, strong economy and resilient communities – matching our skills and resources with the vision and aspirations of our people. Our mahi involves working in partnership with tāngata whenua and our communities to protect and care for our waters, land, air and native life, while building our region’s resilience and adapting to a changing climate. When you join us, you’re part of something bigger- helping Te Taitokerau thrive for generations to come.
Toitū te whenua, toitū te moana, toitū te tangata. If the land is well, if the sea is well, the people will thrive.
Te āheinga / The opportunity
Step into a role where your expertise directly safeguards the health of our region’s freshwater environments. In this role you will provide clear, confident guidance on water use, wetlands, freshwater structures, dam safety, and the regulations that govern them. Your insights will help shape responsible decision‑making and ensure our natural resources are managed with care and integrity.
A major focus of this position is compliance. You’ll develop, plan and deliver monitoring programmes that keep consented and permitted activities aligned with regional rules and freshwater regulations. From site inspections and sampling to reporting and follow‑up actions, you’ll be the person ensuring standards are met—and taking firm, fair action when they’re not. As a warranted enforcement officer under the Resource Management Act 1991, you’ll carry out inspections, respond to non‑compliance, and be prepared to present evidence when enforcement proceedings are required. Confidence and professionalism in this space are essential.
Your work will also extend to managing contractors and consultants, ensuring their outputs meet expectations for technical quality, health and safety, and public engagement. When environmental incidents occur, you’ll play a hands‑on role in investigations, sampling, and response, including participating in the Council’s 24/7 Environmental Hotline roster.
He kōrero mōu / About you
We are looking for someone who brings calm confidence to challenging situations, stays steady under pressure, and can work independently with strong self‑motivation. You will be able to engage professionally with assertive or unhappy customers, handle sensitive or confidential matters with discretion, and interpret legislation and regional plans with clarity. In addition, you will bring the following:
- A tertiary qualification (relevant to the position), or proven skills based on work experience (5 years plus years in a role of relevance).
- Compliance background preferred but not a requirement.
- Proficiency in the use of Microsoft systems e.g. Word, Excel, Outlook.
- Current full drivers licence.
Ko te aha ngā painga o te mahi kei konei? / What are the benefits of working here?
Just as you care about your community and environment, NRC cares about you and your wellbeing. Our organisation celebrates collective efforts and achievements and recognises every individual for their contributions and dedication to their mahi.
We understand the importance of flexibility, so we’re committed to alternative working arrangements for our staff. We offer a range of flexible work arrangements to suit our people’s varied lifestyles, commitments and cultural needs.
Tono mai / Apply
The mahi we do really makes a difference, so if you are motivated to help nurture our region’s taiao, we are keen to learn more about you. Want to have a kōrero with us first, or just need more information? If so, contact our Compliance Monitoring Manager – Freshwater (alexandraa@nrc.govt.nz). To view the job description, visit our careers site where the following link will work: JD: EMO – Freshwater
Applications close on 4 March 2026
We review applications as they are received. Apply online now, as the close date may change. Please note that we do not accept email applications.
Applicants for this position should have NZ residency/citizenship, or a valid NZ work visa.
